Director Jake Schreier recently discussed the process of how Lewis Pullman took over the role of Bob Reynolds, also known as Sentry, following Steven Yeun’s departure from Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts. Yeun originally was cast for the part, but he exited the project in January 2024 due to conflicts arising from a delayed production schedule. Subsequently, Pullman was brought in to fill the role, stepping into the Marvel Cinematic Universe spotlight with limited preparation time.
Lewis Pullman’s Unique Approach to Portraying Sentry
In an exclusive interview with ComingSoon, Schreier described his collaboration with Pullman and how the actor made the complex character his own. Schreier emphasized the challenges involved in playing a character with multiple conflicting aspects and praised Pullman’s ability to integrate them into a cohesive performance.
I mean, Lewis, I’m so grateful to him and the job he did,
Schreier said.
It really was a very fun collaboration because, yeah, he was coming in with not a ton of time to prep. And, like, it’s such a difficult task, right? To play all of these different sides of one character and make it feel integrated. I think it has to become the actor’s part, you know what I mean? It’s never about, ‘Well, this is what we designed and you just have to fit into it.’ It has to be Lewis’ version and his interpretation of what that character is. He brought so much of himself and his own ideas to that part.
—Jake Schreier, Director
Schreier shared that he and Pullman would regularly hold sessions each weekend to unpack each week’s footage. During these “mapping sessions,” they worked on defining the nuances between Bob Reynolds, the superhero Sentry, and the darker Void aspect of the character. Rather than framing these as simple forces of good versus evil, they explored themes such as hubris and despair within Reynolds’ internal struggle. This detailed approach helped Pullman understand which emotional element to bring forward in every scene.
Building Chemistry and Trust on Set
Schreier noted that Pullman demonstrated openness and trust throughout the collaboration, which played a crucial role in shaping his portrayal. This dynamic went beyond the actor’s solo performance, extending to his interactions with costars like Florence and the rest of the Thunderbolts ensemble.
I think it took a lot of trust on his part and a lot of openness. I was just so grateful for how much he brought to that part and to see that chemistry develop with him and Florence, and the rest of the team. I’m really, really excited and happy for him.
—Jake Schreier, Director
Significance and What Lies Ahead for Pullman’s Sentry
With Marvel’s Thunderbolts available to rent or own on digital platforms and set for release on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on July 29, 2025, Lewis Pullman’s interpretation of Sentry will reach a broad audience. His ability to inject personal insight and emotional layers into the character adds a fresh dimension to the Thunderbolts roster. As the MCU continues to expand, Pullman’s performance may influence future portrayals of Bob Reynolds and deepen the complexity of this powerful figure’s storyline within Marvel’s universe.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Steven Yeun quit Marvel?
A. The actor from “Beef” and “Nope” mentioned that the Hollywood strikes made him take a break, which contributed to his decision to leave. He wished the director, Jake Schreier, success with the film.
Q. Is Steven Yeun fluent?
A. Compared to many Asian immigrants his age, Yeun consistently used Korean at home when talking with his parents, even if they spoke English. While he was already quite fluent, Lee aimed for the complete expression of a Korean persona within a well-known American figure.
Q. Why did Steven Yeun leave Marvel?
A. Some thought Yeun left because Marvel’s work quality dropped, but that’s not the main reason. Yeun exited the project because his schedule clashed with the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strikes, which made Marvel postpone Thunderbolts* until the next year.
Q. Why did Steven Yeun leave?
A. Steven Yeun explains why he left Marvel’s “Thunderbolts.” He’s sorry about it and mentions the strike and schedule problems as reasons. Yeun still hopes to act in a Marvel film someday.
